The Birmingham Museum of Art in Alabama is one of the most esteemed museums in the US, boasting a huge, diverse collection. There you can admire paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and much more from across the world and different periods. From European Renaissance and Baroque paintings to African and American artwork, plus Vietnamese ceramics. Now, this glorious spot will also be illuminated by Candlelight concerts.
The museum’s central location in downtown Birmingham makes it super easy to get to, and you’ll certainly know when you’ve arrived. This massive building sits opposite the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex, close to Linn Park and you can easily arrive using public transport. There are tons of fantastic restaurants, bars, and shops in the surrounding area.
Facts, curiosities, and interesting things about the Birmingham Museum of Art
1. Biggest collection of Wedgewood in the world
The Birmingham Museum of Art has an extensive collection of Wedgewood – and that’s an understatement. There are around 10,000 pieces in the museum, donated by two enthusiasts, Dwight and Lucille Beeson and the Buten Wedgewood collection. Some of the ceramics on show are incredibly rare and valuable, including some created when Josiah Wedgewood himself was alive.
2. Amazing Asian artefacts
The Birmingham Museum of Art houses the largest Asian art collection in the Southeastern United States. Curated by Chief Curator Don Wood and William M. Spencer III, the collection includes over 4,000 works representing China, Japan, Korea, India, Tibet, and Southeast Asia. Beginning with a pair of Qing Dynasty ladies’ shoes, the collection has expanded significantly, featuring donations and acquisitions like Chinese lacquerware, Buddhist sculptures, Tang dynasty ceramics, prehistoric Japanese artifacts, and a remarkable assortment of Vietnamese ceramics.
3. Enriching the city with cultural programs
This fantastic spot is committed to education, making the art world accessible to all in Birmingham. It’s free to explore the museum and there are even free guided tours. Plus, there are often workshops and talks by prominent figures, allowing everyone in the community the opportunity to learn.
The museum is full of spectacular artwork made to marvel at, but Candlelight concerts made this space even more beautiful. There. you’ll hear tributes to some of the world’s most famous musical artists. Whether you’re into Pop, Rock, Soul, Reggaeton, or classical compositions, there’s a concert for you where talented musicians perform by the light of thousands of flickering candles.
What else can you do at the Birmingham Museum of Art?
There’s plenty to do at the Birmingham Museum of Art – its exhibitions cater to everyone. Current and upcoming exhibitions, such as ‘Nappy Roots’, ‘Wall to Wall: Amy Pleasant’, ‘American Selections’, and ‘Heroes & Villains: The Art of the Disney Costume’. Plus, the museum hosts engaging events like Sunday DeTours where you can learn about artwork not usually included in the usual tours. Visitors can also explore the museum shop for souvenirs or take a deep dive into art at the Research Library.
Photo: Birmingham Museum of Art, Facebook
Birmingham boasts some of the richest history and most beautiful buildings in the US. So, it’s only fitting that Candlelight, a spectacular worldwide phenomenon, is illuminating these stunning venues. This place is a cultural landmark and an absolute must-visit for Alabama’s art lovers.
